Biogenic synthesis of bimetallic nanoparticles (gold -AuNp and selenium -SeNp) using inexpensive Tryptophan Enriched Banana Peel Media for the growth of marine isolate (Exiguobacterium aestuarii SBG4 MH185868). The response surface methodology is employed for optimizing production conditions. The surface plasmon resonance band showed λ max at 540 nm (AuNp) and 284 nm (SeNp). FTIR and zeta potential analysis confirmed the stability, whereas XRD spectra revealed the nature of nanoparticles obtained at optimum conditions. SEM micrographs showed nanospheres of the following size: AuN, 30 ± 5 nm and SeNp, 50 ± 5 nm. Biocompatibility of Np evaluated by the hemolytic activity showed <20% hemolysis even at highest concentrations (100 µg/ml). AuNp showed the least cytotoxicity, whereas SeNp showed considerable cytotoxicity against the breast cancer cell lines MCF -7 and MDA-MB-231. Hence, we utilized the environment-friendly growth media for the controlled synthesis of dual Np using single bacterial strain involving feasible steps in downstream processing.

Because of its excellent catalytic activity and its ability to act as oxygen buffer causing simultaneous oxidation of hydrocarbons as well as the reduction of Nitrogen Oxide, Cerium Oxide (CeO2) is very special as a fuel additive for internal combustion engines. The present work investigates, through a series of experiments, the influence of the addition of CeO2 in the nanoparticle form on various physicochemical properties of Diesel oil, such as the cloud and pour points, the flash and fire points, the viscosity and the volatility which influence not only the spray characteristic but also the fuel atomization. Diesel oil samples, containing various percentage dosing levels of CeO2 nanoparticles of size range 20-30 nanometers are prepared using standard procedures of ultrasonic mixing, and used in the experiments. The physicochemical properties of the base fuel and the modified fuel are measured accurately using ASTM standard test methods. The effects on the individual fuel properties and the overall performance on a Diesel engine are studied, leading to inferences on the optimum dosing level.

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